The Santa Maria Full-Day Island Cruise in Aegean Sea

This experience made our article of Our 10 Favorite Kos Full-Day Tours.

Introducing the Santa Maria Full-Day Island Cruise in the Aegean Sea

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing day exploring some of the most charming Greek islands without the hassle of arranging your own boat, this Santa Maria full-day cruise might just be what you’re looking for. Based in Kos, Greece, this tour offers a chance to visit three islands—Kalymnos, Platy, and Pserimos—all in one memorable day.

Two things we really appreciate about this trip are the convenience—it’s a straightforward way to tick off multiple islands—and the included traditional barbecue lunch, which means no need to worry about packing food or finding a good spot to eat while on the move. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the group size; with a maximum of around 150 travelers, it might feel a bit crowded for those who prefer more intimate experiences.

This cruise suits travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, want to see a few different islands in one go, and appreciate a laid-back vibe with opportunities for swimming and small explorations. It’s also a good pick for those who value good value for money, given the price point and included amenities. If you’re after a relaxing day with plenty of sun, sea, and local flavor, this one’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Visits three islands—Kalymnos, Platy, and Pserimos—in one straightforward tour.
• Includes a traditional BBQ lunch, making it easy and convenient.
• Opportunity to spot dolphins while passing through their natural habitat.
• Flexible stops for swimming, beach lounging, and exploring local villages.
• WiFi on board helps you stay connected or share your experience.
• Group size is capped at around 150 travelers, balancing social atmosphere with comfort.

What To Expect from the Full-Day Aegean Sea Cruise

This tour packs a lot into about 7.5 hours, starting bright and early at 9:30 am from the Port of Kos. It’s designed to give you a taste of island life while keeping things relaxed and enjoyable. Throughout the day, you’ll hop between islands, enjoy scenic views, and have time to unwind in beautiful spots.

The Itinerary in Focus

Kalimnos is your first stop, where you’ll arrive at the quaint port of Vathy. Here, you can wander the small town streets, try local treats like freshly squeezed orange juice, or sample the island’s renowned honey. The highlight, of course, is the opportunity to take a refreshing swim in the waters—many reviews praise the swimming spots as a real plus. You’ll have around two hours here, which is ample time to explore a bit, relax, and enjoy lunch at a local tavern.

One traveler shared: “The staff were friendly and helpful. Enjoyed the trip,” emphasizing that the crew adds a lot to the experience. The included lunch is a traditional BBQ, a simple but satisfying meal that lets you refuel after your swims and explorations.

Next, you’ll head to Platy, a tiny island perfect for cliff diving and swimming. The water here is described as turquoise and inviting. With just 40 minutes on this stop, it’s all about quick dips and enjoying the scenery. If you’re looking for a brief, lively pause, this spot delivers.

Reviews mention: “Opportunity to swim and just cruise on the Aegean made for a super day,” highlighting how this stop adds an element of fun and adventure.

Finally, your journey takes you to Pserimos, a small, peaceful island with a welcoming sandy beach. The stop here is also around 40 minutes, giving you time to relax, explore, or grab an ice cream. Many find this the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the laid-back vibe of Greek islands.

One review notes: “Beautiful relaxing day with swimming opportunities,” which captures the essence of this stop.

The Experience on Board

The boat, Santa Maria, is equipped with restrooms and WiFi, so you can stay comfortable and connected. The music and even dancing on the ship, according to reviews, add a lively touch to the day.

While beverages and drinks aren’t included, the focus is on the scenery, swimming, and good company. Alcoholic drinks are only permitted for those 18 and over, so if you plan to indulge, bring your own or purchase at the stops.

The Value of the Tour

At just under $45 per person, this tour offers solid value, especially considering the inclusion of a hearty lunch and the opportunity to see multiple islands without additional costs. The reviews reflect overall satisfaction, with many travelers describing the day as “relaxing,” “fun,” and “memorable.” One traveler even mentioned that when their original ship was not sailing, the staff quickly transferred them to a sister ship, turning a potential disappointment into a positive experience.

Why This Tour Might Be Perfect for You

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic day with plenty of opportunities to swim, explore, and enjoy local flavors, this cruise hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to maximize island visits without spending hours organizing transport or multiple tours. The included lunch is a definite perk, simplifying your day and keeping you fueled.

Keep in mind, if you prefer a quiet, intimate experience, the group size might feel a bit crowded. It’s also best suited for those comfortable with a full day on the water and some walking around small towns and beaches.

Final Thoughts

The Santa Maria full-day cruise offers an authentic, practical way to see a few of the beautiful islands near Kos in one go. It combines scenic boat rides, delicious local food, and opportunities to swim and explore, all at a reasonable price. The positive reviews speak to the overall enjoyment and good organization, with some noting the friendly staff and beautiful beaches as highlights.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a straightforward, enjoyable day on the water, with enough flexibility to relax, swim, and soak in the island vibes. It’s not a luxury cruise, but it’s honest, well-organized, and packed with memorable moments. If you’re looking to tick off islands without the fuss and with plenty of local flavor, it’s a solid choice.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
It generally suits most travelers; however, since it involves a full day on the water and some swimming, consider your children’s comfort with boat rides and swimming.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a traditional BBQ lunch, restroom facilities on board, and WiFi. Beverages and drinks are not included.

Can I see dolphins during the trip?
Yes, you might spot dolphins as you pass through their natural habitat, which many travelers find exciting.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, towel, and possibly some cash for souvenirs or drinks at stops.

How long do we stay on each island?
Kalimnos gets about two hours, while Platy and Pserimos have around 40 minutes each.

Is there WiFi on the boat?
Yes, WiFi is available onboard, so you can stay connected or share your trip in real time.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 8 days ahead to secure their spot, especially in peak seasons.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 150 travelers, striking a balance between social and comfortable.

How do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is at the Kos Cruise Experts office at the Port of Kos, starting at 9:30 am.

If this sounds like your kind of day—relaxed, scenic, with good food and lively company—it’s definitely worth considering. Enjoy your Greek island adventure!